Tag Archives: Porte de la Combe

Set some 250 metres about sea level overlooking the Dordogne river is the bastide town of Domme, with much of it’s ramparts still in place and three of the original doors remaining it is impressive and imposing. Classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France Domme is also one of the largest bastide towns in the region.

The largest of the three doors – the Porte des Tours was converted into a prison in 1307 and it’s still possible to see crucifixes carved into the stone by those imprisoned there.

You can walk round the ramparts between the Porte de la Combe and the Porte del Bos or wander down small streets lined with a mixed array of houses and pretty traditional stone cottages.

The view from Domme is impressive and one of the best in the area……..a great photo opportunity!

In the centre of the town you can find the entrance to the caves (grottes) which were used during the Hundred Years War to shelter and hide many of the town’s inhabitants. There are more than 400m of stalactite filled galleries and a glass lift takes you back up to the surface.

Domme is very popular with tourists and can get quite busy but it’s still worth the trip – and there are several buildings with history also worth seeking out – the Maison du batteur de monnaie du Roy is where money was minted in the middle ages is now a café and an ideal place to pause for a coffee and take it all in!

Domme also has a little tourist train which is very popular with kids and is a lovely way to see the town.

Cycling in Domme and the surrounding area is the ideal way to explore and there are many route options to choose from – yisit the ‘Cycling in the Dordogne‘ page of our website to discover some of the cycling routes in the area.